Speech Trek
Speech Trek is an AAUW-CA annual speaking contest (held in February) open to all high-school girls and boys on a subject related to AAUW’s themes. Students prepare a five-minute speech with strict timing guidelines and may use only one small note card. Speech preparation requires students to use research, organizational and oratorical skills. The contest begins at the branch level. Three state competitors, selected from video tapes of their winning branch speeches, progress to a competition at the AAUW State Convention in the spring.
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The Eleanor Stem-Allen Speech Trek Scholarship was endowed by Gray Allen in honor of his late wife, Eleanor Allen, who was a dedicated AAUW member. She initiated the branch Speech Trek program and served as the branch Speech Trek Coordinator for the first two years. The Scholarship funds the prize monies for our branch winners.
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2024 - 2025 Speech Trek Chair: Michelle Colletto
Local branch prizes are:
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1st Place $1200
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2nd Place $800
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3rd Place $600
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4th Place $300
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5th Place $100
Speech Trek Topic for 2024 - 2025
Climate change is happening. The effects are widespread and touch upon almost all aspects of our life on this planet. Select one area of impact and explore the effect climate change is having on women in the USA and around the world
Background:
The adverse effects of climate change are well studied in relation to agriculture, ecosystems, water resources, human health, and industry, especially in geographical locations that are economically dependent on local natural RESOURCES.
Many studies also highlight climate change in terms of its impact on economics. But do the reports identify any disproportionate effects on women? Is women's health more vulnerable to environmental changes?
Many companies claim their bottom line is impacted by the cost of climate change legislation. Does this have an impact on women's careers and leadership opportunities?
If there are disparities in any of these areas, how does that change the way you look at climate change?
The top prize money for the winners of the state competition will be increased to $2,500 for 1st place, $2,000 for 2nd place, $1000 for 3rd place, and the two honorable mentions will each receive $500.
2023 - 2024 Speech Trek Contest
2024 Speech Trek Chair: Denise Hexom
Topic
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If an educated population is essential to a nation’s prosperity, then how can we ensure a robust public-school curriculum that is accessible to all and teaches historically accurate information?
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1st place: Kanin McGee - $1200 Lincoln High School
2nd place: Sean Colaljo- $800 Whitney High School
3rd place: Annelise Cederholm - $600 Lincoln High School
4th place: Noah Brandt - $300 Woodcreek High School
5th place: Emilie Moriswala - $100 Whitney High School
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